Topic: H-D: ECU looks to follow script of other Herd opponents

[ZackUSAF82]

By ANTHONY HANSHEW
The Herald-Dispatch

HUNTINGTON -- Too often this season, Marshall University football opponents have remained on schedule.

Jumping to a combined 78-8 first quarter advantage, offensive coordinators can stick to their scripts while defenses are turned loose on Thundering Herd quarterback Bernard Morris. East Carolina will look to do the same this weekend, with dynamic running back Chris Johnson setting up a diverse passing game.

"We talk about schedule a lot in football," Marshall coach Mark Snyder said. "... When an offense can stay on schedule, or a defense, you've probably got something pretty good happening for you.

"When you get off schedule, you have to do things that maybe you're not used to doing."

Forcing East Carolina from its routine is the idea Saturday when the Thundering Herd (1-8, 1-4 Conference USA) hosts ECU (6-4, 5-1). Kickoff at Joan C. Edwards Stadium is 4:30 p.m.

Albert McClellan was a disruptive force in last season's meeting of C-USA East Division rivals. Marshall's sophomore defensive end totaled 6.5 tackles for loss, including 3.5 sacks, forced two fumbles and broke up a pass. East Carolina overcame individual brilliance in a 33-20 victory.

Link: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1086080768